Pocket reduction, also known as gingivectomy or flap surgery, is a surgical procedure used to remove bacteria and calculus from the roots of your teeth when you have periodontal disease.

At any given time, there are dozens of different types of bacteria in your mouth. These bacteria produce acid which inflames and infects your gums, leading to the development of periodontal disease. Pocket reduction works to eliminate these bacteria and reduce inflammation in your mouth in order to save your gums and teeth.

Pocket reduction helps to:

• Reduce bacterial spread
• Halt bone loss
• Facilitate effective home care

Our dentists will begin by administering a local or general anesthetic to ensure your comfort during this procedure. Your gums will then be gently pulled back from your teeth and bacteria and calculus will be removed, usually through scaling and root planing. At the end of your procedure, our dentists will administer an antimicrobial agent to kill any remaining bacteria and encourage healing. Your gums will then be sutured back into place to prevent shifting.

Following your pocket reduction surgery, you may experience an increase in gum and tooth sensitivity. Your periodontal pockets should be reduced, and you should see an improvement in the health of your teeth and gums within a few weeks.

For more information about pocket reduction and to schedule an appointment with our dentists, please contact our office today.